Summary

Baylor College of Medicine, in partnership with the Department of Pathology at Texas Children's Hospital, is seeking a Research Assistant I to support the Texas Children's Hospital Pediatric Biobank. The biobank collects, processes, and stores patient biospecimens to advance future multi-omic and translational research.

Under the direction of the Lab Director and senior staff, the Research Assistant I will perform research support activities related to biospecimen processing, sample documentation, data management, and regulatory compliance. This position plays an important role in maintaining the quality and integrity of the biobank while supporting research initiatives across the institution.

Job Duties

Biobank Operations and Biospecimen Processing 
• Coordinates the receipt, accessioning, processing, and storage of biological specimens in accordance with approved biobank standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Performs laboratory procedures, including DNA extraction from blood and other biospecimens, using established protocols to ensure high-quality sample processing.

Research Support and Process Improvement
• Conducts literature reviews and evaluates research protocols to support the implementation of new specimen types, technologies, and laboratory workflows.

Laboratory Operations and Inventory Management 
• Maintains laboratory equipment, automated platforms, and the biobank work environment to ensure safe, accurate, and efficient operations.
• Orders laboratory supplies and equipment and monitors inventory levels to support uninterrupted laboratory operations.

Team Support and Other Duties 
• Provides guidance and assigns work to less experienced research or biobank staff, as appropriate.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned in support of the biobank's research and operational mission.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Basic Science or a related field.
• Two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in basic science or a related field.
• Experience performing DNA extraction and/or PCR.
• Experience operating liquid handlers or other automated laboratory equipment.
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently within defined protocols and make sound operational decisions.